Private early childhood centres in Dubai are set to gradually return to on-site learning starting Thursday (April 16), as announced by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority. Centres located on government premises and in commercial buildings will reopen, subject to KHDA approval and in line with comprehensive safety regulations and procedures.
Other nurseries will be permitted to continue operating through approved home-based childcare services, ensuring continuity of care for young children while maintaining compliance with existing regulations.
Nationwide Phased Return to In-Person Learning
The reopening aligns with a broader announcement by the Education, Human Resources and Community Development Council confirming readiness for in-person learning across the UAE.
Authorities confirmed that nurseries nationwide will begin a phased return to classrooms this week. The approach is designed to maintain stability across the education sector while prioritising the safety of students, families, and staff.
This move aims to restore early childhood education services following a period of disruption, during which classes shifted to distance learning due to regional conflict.
Safety Measures and Readiness Programmes
To support the transition, authorities are implementing comprehensive preparedness programmes across nurseries, schools, and universities. These include staff training initiatives and operational readiness checks aligned with official safety directives.
Field evaluation visits will also be conducted by regulators and relevant ministries to assess institutional readiness. In parallel, guidance frameworks are being developed to help institutions transition smoothly between in-person and remote learning when required, ensuring flexibility and continuity.
Why Schools Shifted to Distance Learning
Schools moved to online learning as a precaution amid regional security concerns linked to the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Distance learning was first introduced on March 2 following Iran’s attacks on the UAE and other Gulf countries.
The arrangement was initially set to run until March 6 before the spring break was brought forward. Remote learning was later extended beyond the break as authorities continued to prioritise the safety of students, staff, and the wider education community during a period of heightened uncertainty.
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